Social Care Unit Manager

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and dedicated Social Care Unit Manager to lead a residential care service for young people aged 14–17 years. The service supports both male and female residents, primarily those in foster care placements or young people requiring care and protection interventions.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the overall management, leadership, and operation of the residential unit, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, child-centred care in line with regulatory requirements, national standards, and organisational policies.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide effective leadership and management to the residential care team.
  
• Ensure the safety, welfare, and development of all young people in the service.
  
• Promote a positive, therapeutic, and nurturing environment.
  
• Oversee care planning, risk management, safeguarding, and placement support.
  
• Ensure compliance with HIQA standards, Children First guidelines, and relevant legislation.
  
• Manage staffing, supervision, performance management, and staff development.
  
• Coordinate recruitment, induction, and ongoing training programmes.
  
• Maintain strong relationships with social workers, families, external agencies, and stakeholders.
  
• Monitor budgets and resources effectively to ensure efficient service delivery.
  
• Participate in on-call duties as required.
  

Essential Requirements

• A recognised Level 7 or Level 8 qualification in Social Care, Social Work, Applied Social Studies, or a related field.
  
• Significant experience working within residential childcare services.
  
• Previous management or senior leadership experience in a social care setting.
  
• Strong knowledge of child protection, safeguarding, and relevant legislation.
  
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills.
  
• Full Irish driving licence with a minimum of 1 year's driving experience.
  
• Eligibility to work in Ireland with the appropriate visa/work permit where applicable.
  

Desirable Requirements

• Experience working with adolescents presenting with complex needs.
  
• Knowledge of HIQA regulations and inspection processes.
  
• Relevant management qualification.
  

What We Offer

• Competitive salary of €65,000–€70,000 per annum.
  
• 5 weeks annual leave.
  
• Company pension scheme.
  
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
  
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
  
• Opportunity to play a key role in establishing and leading a new residential service.
  

Additional Information

As this is a new service opening in August, the successful candidate will be involved in the establishment and development of the unit. A minimum of four weeks' training and onboarding will be provided. Flexibility and commitment during the service start-up period are essential.